Help for Sophia: ‘Pray for my Bug, my love, my world’

Assistant District Attorney Angel Myers has dedicated her life to prosecuting criminals who target children, but now she and husband Joshua Myers are in the fight of their lives for their only child, Sophia.

The first-grader at Oak Park Elementary was diagnosed Wednesday with an inoperable brain tumor. Sophia, whom her parents call Bug, has been diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas, known as DIPG, a tumor on a major structure in the upper part of the brain stem.

Seven-year-old Sophia is at Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital at University Medical Center in Jackson. Her parents have taken time off from work to be with her as she undergoes treatment.

A GoFundMe.com account has been set up to help the family with expenses.

“Any amount will help ease the burden from their unwelcomed life-changing event,” a relative wrote on the GoFundMe page. “I am uncertain of their specific needs at this time besides the obvious need for financial assistance. Let’s join together in prayer and support of sweet Sophia.”

State Sen. Brice Wiggins forged a close friendship with Angel Myers when they worked together at the District Attorney’s office. Wiggins broke down Thursday as he spoke about the child he describes as “a light in this world.”

“We all love our children but Angel and Josh are parents who, I know, Sophia, means so much to them,” he said. “ I think they need to know there is a community out there for them. When my wife went through cancer, the love of the community got me through it.”

Wiggins said Angel Myers has done much to help the community over the years.

“They need everybody’s prayers and support and to just know we are there for them,” he said.

“Anything anybody can do, I know they will appreciate,” he said. “We all need to help them through and think of the positive times and where we are going from here. I will do whatever I can.”

District Attorney Tony Lawrence added, “Angel has worked in the District Attorney’s Office for 11 years and I’ve known Sophia since birth. The news about Sophia is devastating to her family and all who know and love her. I’m always impressed with the support my staff shows each other, especially in times like this.”

The petite young girl with long blonde hair has stolen many hearts as South Mississippians rally around the child who loves to dance, sing, play soccer and dress up in Princess outfits.

Angel Myers has one simple message for those who want to offer support.

“Pray for my Bug, my love, my world.”

This story was originally published February 23, 2017 at 11:25 AM with the headline "Help for Sophia: ‘Pray for my Bug, my love, my world’."